I am a wife and a mother of three.

Author interview with Alyson Hale and Guests Kyri and Jace 28th March 2019

Hi Alyson, how are you today?

Hi there! I just finished a great book and I’m hopped up on caffeine so I’m feeling pretty great!

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’m a little bit of a ditz/spaz but I love my family, books and rainy afternoons in bed. I’m a classic introvert who only ventures outside the house when I have to. You can find me wearing crazy patterned leggings, t-shirts and fuzzy socks at home on any given day since I work from home.

If you could have been the original author of any book, what would it have been and why?

I really wish I had been the first to think up Harry Potter...because Harry Potter.

When did it dawn upon you that you wanted to be a writer?

I was 14 years old and taking a creative writing class, and the teacher noticed I was able to write out my experiences well. I tried to write out my memoirs but due to some painful memories, I settled on writing fiction for now. Eventually I will try to write out my own crazy life story.

What inspires you to write? How often do you write?

A strange combination of real-life inspiration and the desire to escape reality inspires me to write. I don’t make it every day, but I try my best to write every day.

Do you have a set schedule for writing, or are you one of those who write only when they feel inspired?

Per the advice of Stephen King and other established authors, I try to write approximately 1,000 words a day. Even if it’s a journal entry or a plan for a novel, writing every day is the only way to get better at it.

How hard was it to sit down and actually start writing something?

When I first started writing at age 14, there was a bit of a learning curve, but it has always felt natural to me, like what I was made to do. Sometimes I struggle with technique or my short-windedness, but generally it isn’t a problem for me. Now finding the TIME to write...that’s a different story.

Do you aim to complete a set number of pages or words each day?

Yes, 1,000 words per day. However, if I only type 250 words one day, it’s still better than nothing. I’ll also have days where it’s 3,000+ so I try not to be too harsh on myself.

Do you set a plot or prefer going wherever an idea takes you?

I am a HUGE plotter, but if the novel moves me in another direction as I’m writing it I change it as I go.

What, according to you, is the hardest thing about writing?

The hardest thing is getting to the point where you’re in the character’s head. You have to get to know them first before writing their story. Once you know the characters, they have a way of writing it for you.

What would you say is the easiest aspect of writing?

The easiest part is coming up with ideas for books. I have a billion books in my head and only so much time in which to write them down.

Have you ever experienced “Writer’s Block”? How long do they usually last? Any tips you would like to share to overcome it?

I’ve experienced writer’s block up to six weeks long before (a nightmare!). Usually when that happens, it means the direction you’re trying to take the story in is not right and you need to recalibrate.

Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors?

I try to read as often as I can when it doesn’t take time away from my own writing. My favorite erotic romance author is Alexa Riley. I devour their books like there won’t ever be another one (even though there always is!). My favorite classical authors are L.M. Montgomery and Louisa May Alcott.

Over the years, what would you say has improved significantly in your writing?

My writing used to be mostly dialogue. I’ve gotten a lot better in recent years at developing the inner monologue.

Do you proofread and edit your work on your own or pay someone to do it for you?

I proofread and edit my work because I am a ruthless grammar Nazi and very little slips by me. However, I do need beta readers to point things out to me at times, which they are great at doing.

Have you ever left any of your books stew for months on end or even a year?

I have books that have been stewing for years but they are unfinished. In my experience, when a book is ready to be finished and published, there is very little I can do to stop myself from finishing it.

If you had the choice to rewrite any of your books, which one would it be and why?

I have a series under my YA pseudonym that I’m considering rewriting, mostly because I had some ideas to make it better over the past couple of years.

What is your take on the importance of a good cover and title?

A good cover and title are ESSENTIAL to the sales of a book. Some books sell based on those aspects alone. A good blurb makes a difference as well.

Have you ever designed your own book cover?

I design all my own covers & teasers.

Do you read and reply to the reviews and comments of your readers?

I read them and occasionally “like” them on Goodreads, but I try not to reply. Reviews are a reader’s space, and unless they were gushing about how much they liked the book and had no criticism, it can seem a little invasive for an author to inject their opinion.

Does a bad review affect your writing?

I try to take bad reviews as “critiques” and use that feedback to improve future works.

Any advice you would like to give to aspiring writers?

Approach writing as a passion and not a career. This is not an endeavor for the fainthearted. As Stephen King once said, “do it for the joy of the thing.”

What did you want to become when you were a kid?

I wanted to become a doctor. Considering I am a huge germaphobe with anxiety about being near sick people, I’d say I made the right call not pursuing that route.

Do you recall the first ever book/novel you read?

The first books I remember reading were Dr. Seuss books, but the first novels that made an impression on me were the Ramona Quimby series by Beverly Cleary.

Which book inspired you to begin writing?

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. Jo March is a legend. I love that girl more than words can express.

Did you ever think you would be unable to finish your first novel?

Oh yes, I doubted myself many times. I’m glad I stuck it out though.

Tell us about your writing style, how is it different from other writers?

I try to give everything a unique twist, but in the end my writing is inspired by other writers so I have something from every author I’ve ever read.

How much of yourself do you put into your books?

My books always have some aspect of my personality, whether explored or unexplored. A lot of the sexuality in my erotic romance novellas is self-exploration that eventually finds its way into my own bedroom. I also try to write strong women who have dreams and aspirations of their own.

Have you ever incorporated something that happened to you in real life into your novels?

Yeah but you bet your ass I’m never gonna tell what it was!! Except for insta-love, I actually experienced that firsthand with my husband and I really can’t imagine it happening any other way (though I will try for future books).

What books have influenced your life the most?

The ones I read as a kid come back to me all the time.

Are there any books that you are currently reading and why?

I just finished The Roommate Agreement by Emma Hart, it was awesome! I’m also reading Story Genius by Lisa Cron. It’s about developing the character’s story, which is the key to any great novel.

Is there anything you are currently working on that may intrigue the interest of your readers?

I just finished the 3rd book in the Rock Her series and now I’m about to start #4. I also have a billionaire romance series in the works as well as a possible standalone rockstar romance.

It is often believed that almost all writers have had their hearts broken at some point in time, does that remain true for you as well?

Yes I had my share of heartbreak, though not much because I fell in love and got married young. I did have a previous serious relationship that fell prey to a lot of toxicity, which I’m sure I will explore in a book at some point.

You have two awesome rocker books out and you have a cover reveal for book three in june can you share a little taster of that book?

Here’s a little excerpt for you!

From Eddie’s POV:

I always knew angels were traditionally involved in Christmas celebrations, but I never expected to come face-to-face with one in the flesh. She looks fucking glorious. She smells divine. And I can’t help but imagine that holding her in my arms would be enough to send me to the seventh heaven.

Her light red hair is gathered in a halo-like shape on the top of her head. When she meets my gaze, I stop and take in her stunning hazel eyes. The irises are rimmed with amber with a ring of gold in the middle and nearly imperceptible streaks of green growing out from her pupils. They’re big, bright and piercing. It’s as if she’s looking directly into my soul. My eyes travel down her long, slim nose to her cheekbones, which are rosy and round like a couple of ripe apples. A smile teases her small, plump lips.

I suddenly realize I haven’t spoken. I hold out my hand, unprepared for the tidal wave that sweeps over me at the touch of her soft, smooth fingers. My calloused hands haven’t held anything this delicate and wonderful in years. I’ve touched plenty of women in my life, but I’ve never met one and felt like I would shatter into a million pieces if I let her go.

“Eddie Turner,” I say simply. My voice is a bit hoarse, probably from straining with all my might against the urge to take her in my arms and taste her sweetness for myself. This is my best friend’s fiancée’s little sister. I’m here to be polite and pleasant, not a pervert.

“Elyza Calloway,” she replies. If I’m not mistaken, there’s a touch of hoarseness in her voice as well. I’ve been with enough women to know when someone is turned on by me. Her mouth looks drier than usual. She’s unconsciously pushing her chest out. I can detect a slight hint of her pebbled nipples through her tight sweater.

Fuck me. This little girl has no idea what she’s asking for. I stand at least a good foot taller than her. She’s so tiny, and if her mouth looks this fuckable, I can only imagine how snug and wet her pussy is. Underneath that sweater, she’s only wearing a pair of leggings. All I can think about right now is ripping a hole in that sinfully thin fabric and squeezing my girth into her tight channel, pumping in and out, watching her dark, plush lashes shadow her stunning eyes as she moans out my name...

Damien’s truck pulls into the driveway, ripping me out of my wicked thoughts. I chastise myself inwardly. This girl can’t be much older than eighteen. She’s far too young to fuck up her life by being with a man like me. This zap of chemistry between us needs to be neutralized, and quick.

I must admit I loved Jase and Kyri story in Rock her hard, What was the inspiration behind that one and can we expect more from them in another book?

Jace and Kyri are inspired (somewhat) by my own life. My husband was in a rock band that *almost* got signed (one of the bandmates got his girlfriend knocked up and ruined it, sad story). We also go to an Irish pub a lot because my hubs is 98% Irish in descent. Our love story wasn’t quite as crazy as Jace and Kyri’s, but he talked about us getting married on our first date so it was insta-love to the max, even moreso than theirs! And yes, they will be involved in each book, but especially book #3, which is about Kyri’s little sister Elyza.

There are loads of rocker series out and you have two books in the series out. What makes yours stand out against the rest?

My rockers are faithful to their girls as soon as they lay eyes on them. That isn’t easy to do with manwhore rockstars! They also have no problems with chasing their strong women down until they realize they’re made for each other.

If you could meet one of your leading characters in person who would it be and why?

I would meet Jace and probably jump his bones. Sorry babe! He’s fictional, so I can say that without repercussions.

Writers are often believed to have a Muse, who is yours?

My husband is definitely my muse. Not only does he inspire my heroes, but he helps me with writing in the fantasy genre (different pseudonym and not published yet, but hopefully soon).

Some say books die every time they are turned into a movie; what do you think?

Not necessarily true! I loved the Hunger Games movies and I’ve seen other books whose movies came close to doing them justice. Honestly a good movie makes me want to read the book that much more if I haven’t already.

Name one book that you like most among all the others you have penned down?

That’s a really tough call. For my current books I’d say Rock Her Hard is my favorite, but I have other ideas I think I might like more once they’re written down.

What is your view on co-authoring books; have you done any?

I would love to co-author a book. If I ever met someone I felt comfortable sharing a work with, I could see myself doing that.

Is writing book series more challenging?

It is definitely more challenging, mainly because of having to maintain continuity. Even the tiniest details can throw off continuity if you’re not careful.

What do you do in your free time?

Play video games, go to bars and pubs, read, hang out with my family. Like I said, classic introvert.

How do you feel when people recognize you in public and appreciate your work?

I like public recognition but sometimes I get embarrassed by it. It depends on the situation. I absolutely love good reviews, though. They motivate me to keep going.

What advice would you like to give writers who are struggling with their first novels?

The first novel is the hardest because you don’t know how to write one yet. It gets easier. Just know this: if your characters don’t drive you crazy injecting their opinions constantly, you don’t know them well enough yet.

How did it feel when your first book got published?

I was very excited and proud to have a finished novel. I hoped for a bigger audience than I got, but I had to realize it takes time to get noticed when you have millions of other books and authors to be seen amongst.

Do you see the ‘writing bug’ in any of your family members?

Unfortunately not! Though it’s not like I haven’t tried to coax them into it. Maybe one day.

Does it get frustrating if you are unable to recall an idea you had in your mind some time earlier?

Absolutely. That’s why I try to always write down an idea as soon as it comes to me.

Do you pen down revelations and ideas as you get them, right then and there?

Yes, and I keep it all in Google Drive so I can access it easily.

Have you ever destroyed any of your drafts?

Early on I did, and then I regretted it. I always keep my drafts now.

Have you ever written a character based on the real you in some part?

My series under a pseudonym is based on a younger me.

Can you tell us about your current projects?

Rock Her Long, which is in the editing phase, is the story of Eddie and Elyza, who both appear in books 1 & 2. They seem young and a little clueless but the truth is Eddie is putting on a happy face. You’ll see what I’m talking about if you read the book. He is a LOT more alpha than he lets on. I’m looking forward to writing Connor and Ingrid in Rock Her Forever. It’s a secret baby (or rather secret pregnancy) romance.

When can the readers expect your next book in print?

Rock Her Long is coming June 3, 2019. Rock Her Forever should be out a couple months after, but no set date yet.

Are you working on something new at the moment?

I haven’t started the draft of Rock Her Forever yet but that will be my next project.

It is often said that in order to write something, you must believe in what you are writing. Do you agree with that?

Yes, and I believe in love! ♥ It is in and for everyone.

Did you ever have a rough patch in writing, where nothing in the story seemed to fit or make sense?

Yes, I had to rework some things. That’s why outlines and multiple drafts are a must.

Did you always know that you were destined for literary greatness, or you, as they say, “stumbled” upon it?

Ha ha, “literary greatness!” I wouldn’t say that about myself at all, but I’d like to think that’s what I’m working towards.

Some writers create a bubble around themselves until they’re finished with their project – how true is that in your case?

I wish I could but that is impossible when you work from home and have a kiddo that’s not in full-time school yet. I barely get any time to write, which is why you’ll often find me waking up at 4 AM when I’m working on a book.

Have any of your past loves inspired characters in your books?

Meh, not yet. I don’t like to give them much thought. Someday if I write about a toxic relationship I probably will, though.

Writers usually have a particular Muse, but some also have a different Muse which inspired different books – does that apply in your case?

Some people I’ve met throughout my journey have inspired characters, but I don’t want to point them out. Real-life inspirations are everywhere, though. That’s why authors love people watching.

Which book is the one you keep going back to again and again?

I always go back to the first book I ever wrote. It has a special place in my heart.

What advice would you like to pass on to young writers of today that is unconventional but true?

It’s okay if your work is similar to another person’s (as long as it’s not plagiarism). It’s true that there’s “nothing new under the sun.” The trick is to take those elements and rework them into something new and your own.

Have you ever written a character with an actor in mind?

Not really. I usually base my characters on models I see while I’m looking for cover photos.

Tell us about an interesting or memorable encounter you had with a fan?

I’ve never met any in person but I think it shocked me when someone actually asked for my newsletter. That was when I realized I’d made an impact on someone.

Have you ever changed the ending of a series based off the reaction of your fans?

Probably Louisa May Alcott. I read her books until they were falling apart.

Does fan mail still excite you as much as it did the first time you received it?

Yes, it’s very exciting!

Do you often project your own habits onto your characters?

Yes, I use my snacking and drinking habits to inform theirs sometimes. I also try to work in hobbies or creative passions to give them parts of me.

What is the biggest lie you have told in a book that you did not believe yourself?

That men always find the clit and/or want to eat you out ;)

How long do you take to write a book?

Anywhere between 1-3 months.

What is that dream goal you want to achieve?

I would like to make the USA Today and/or NYT list someday.

How active are you on social media? And how do you think it affects the way you write?

I get on social media quite often through the day, but I try to limit my activity if I’m in the middle of a project. It can get distracting sometimes.

Thank you to the lovely Alyson Hale for joining me and now qe have her two lead characters from Rock Her Hard.

Character interview

Afternoon both thank you both for joining me today, tell us a little about yourselves?

Jace: Afternoon, darling *winks*

Kyri: *elbows him for being a flirt* Hi there! I’m Kyri and this is my asshole.

Jace: You know I’m just putting on a show for the fans, my little Irish princess.

Kyri: Ha ha, right. I’m a writer and Jace is the hottest frontman of all time.

Jace: *looks smug* Does that even need to be said?

Jace how did you feel when your manager asked you to lure Kyri because she has a crush on you?

Jace: It felt fucked up from the beginning, I’m not gonna lie. But one look at this sweet little dish and I couldn’t help myself. *grins at Kyri*

Kyri how do you feel now knowing what your father originally asked Jace to do?

Kyri: I never blamed Jace for it. I know how twisted my father is and that Jace felt coerced into agreeing to help him, plus Jace didn’t know the extent of how bad our family life was. What Jace and I have went above and beyond the whole deception thing, so it was easy to forgive on his end. Forgiving my father was another story. After what he did to my mother all those years ago, I couldn’t bring myself to do it.

Jace when you first laid eyes on Kyri in the bar where she works, what was running through your mind?

Jace: The future sound of bed springs squeaking.

Kyri: *embarrassed* OMG...

Both- Was it love at first sight or a case of lust at first sight?

Jace: Lust at first sight. Love at first fuck.

Kyri: That’s about right.

Kyri how did you feel seeing your celebrity crush at the bar?

Kyri: Considering it was my first night on the job? I was about to shit my pants from nerves. I don’t know how I managed not to spill everybody’s food and drinks. It was the craziest thing ever, him showing up there out of the blue. Although now that I know why, it doesn’t seem so random. It’s almost like a fucked up form of destiny.

Jace how did you feel knowing you had a job to do but you were falling hard for Kyri?

Jace: It was frustrating. I was never frustrated by her, just the twisted nature of it all. I wanted to have her without complications but it seemed like there was a new one at every turn.

Kyri will you ever forgive your father for leaving and for asking Jace to lure you back into his life?

Kyri: It’s not so much that as it is the alcoholism and abusive behavior. Those memories don’t go away so easily. At this point, I’m not pursuing things further, but I never say never.

Jace now you know kyri's side and her father's do you regret agreeing to do what he asked you to do and how do you feel now you know both sides?

Jace: I almost immediately regretted agreeing to help her father and not just going after her by myself. The only reason I went along with the whole thing was just to meet her. I should have done that by myself in the first place, but I thought his blessing would make things run smoother. It ended up having the opposite effect. Go figure.

Kyri how long have you had a crush on Jace and what is it about him that you like so much?

Kyri: *dreamy eyes* He’s been my celebrity crush since I was twelve. I love his deep, gravelly voice, his intense stare, his lyrics and the passion behind his music...absolutely everything.

Jace at the bar Damien had his eye on Kyri but you wanted her, what would you of done if he didn't back down and chased her?

Jace: There would have been an all-out war and he would have gone down in flames.

Kyri did you fancy any other members of the band?

Kyri: I’ll admit, the others are hot, but I’m a sucker for a grizzly alpha male. My second choice would probably have been Damien. *covers her mouth, having blurted that out*

Jace: *burns through Kyri with a glare* We’ll talk about this when we get home.

Jace what would you of done if Kyri chose Damien over you?

Jace: Never would have happened. I get what I want. People know not to get in the way of that.

Kyri how do you feel knowing Jace warned his band member off you because he wanted you for himself?

Kyri: It’s a huge ego boost for sure. But this guy makes sure I never have a doubt he’s crazy about me, so I’m not that surprised.

Jase you are known as the player of the band, why did you decide to change your ways?

Jace: It gets lonely on the road not having anyone to come home to. I had my share of fun times with women, but now I want someone who’s only mine.

Kyri how did you feel finally kissing the man of your dreams?

Kyri: It was like an out of body experience. I could hardly believe it was really happening. It felt so unreal, which is probably why it took me so long to realize he actually wanted me.

Jace you were like a lost puppy for the few days you couldn't see Kyri, has any other girl had that effect on you?

Jace: *guffaws* Thanks for that. And no, definitely not. I’m usually the one who makes other people act like puppies.

Kyri why did you run just when things were getting hot between you and Jace?

Kyri: It scared me to think about getting my heart broken by him. My dad left us for his music career and it was hard to accept that Jace wouldn’t do the same thing. Everything we had together was so intense, it made me go crazy.

Jace how did you feel being grilled with questions by Kyri's mother?

Jace: It was like being on uneven ground. I’d like to think I held my own, though.

Kyri , Jase popped your cherry, why did you save yourself ?

Kyri: Honestly? Abandonment issues. But Jace was sexy enough to make me forget about those long enough to get in bed with him.

Jace: *grins forever*

Jase you give Kyri slot of first, are there anymore firsts you plan to give her?

Jace: *sniggers* All of it’s too dirty to go into detail about on a public forum. She quite enjoyed her first back door entry, I’ll say that much.

Kyri: JACE!!!!! *turns beet red*

Kyri when did you realise you were in love with Jase?

Kyri: When he defended me from a creepy guy in the club, I realized he cared about me for more than just sex. He held me in his arms afterwards and I knew I could trust him to protect me.

Jase when did you realise Kyri was the woman you wanted to be with?

Jace: She had me hooked from the first kiss. Even a man-slut knows when it’s right.